More rain on the way in the Valley

Rain, rain and more rain is forecast for the central San Joaquin Valley this coming week as the first significant storm of the year arrives with a second front in pursuit. Most portions of the Valley received about a half-inch of rain, with heavier precipitation in the Sierra Nevada.

Rain, rain and more rain is forecast for the central San Joaquin Valley this coming week as the first significant storm of the year arrives with a second front in pursuit. Most portions of the Valley received about a half-inch of rain, with heavier precipitation in the Sierra Nevada.

The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook in connection with the storm that warns of unsettled weather on the east side of the Valley. The region is expected to experience scattered showers and gusty winds as the cold front moves through the area. The conditions are expected to last until Friday.

In the Sierra Nevada, the California Highway Patrol issued a mandatory requirement for chains this morning on Highway 41 near Oakhurst and at the top of the four-lane on Highway 168 near Shaver Lake. The CHP said snow had fallen as low as 4,000 feet.

Valley highs are expected to be in the low 50s all week and the lows in the high 30s.

Winter weather conditions have prompted the seasonal closure of roads on the Sierra National Forest. Kaiser Pass Road to Edison and Florence lakes and the McKinley Grove Road to Wishon and Courtright reservoirs are closed for the winter. The Sierra Vista National Scenic Byway is also closed.

Travelers are advised to use roads that are maintained for winter travel which include State Highways 41, 140, and 168. Winter storms can catch travelers off-guard and it's important to carry tire chains and notify a family member or friend of travel plans and when you are scheduled to return home.